Camping sites near Government Camp, Oregon range in elevation from 3,000 to 4,500 feet across Mount Hood National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with summer nights averaging 45-50°F. Several campgrounds remain accessible into early fall, with some roads requiring higher clearance vehicles during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Trillium Lake Campground offers productive fishing in calm waters. "Really pretty campground with open campsites. The lake has great fishing and there are lots of nice mountain activities very close to the campground," notes Ashley C.
Paddleboarding and kayaking: Lost Lake Resort provides equipment rentals for water activities. "The lake is always cold no matter the season. Really easy fishing if you're just learning. They have tons of rentals," explains ChiAnn M., making it suitable for beginners.
Hiking trails: Clear Lake Campground connects to several walking paths. A camper named Corinna B. shares: "About $20/site, including some amazing spots with water views. There's a boat dock/area, but when we arrived there in August the 'lake' was more of a river, which was perfect for all the splashing and playing that we wanted to do."
What campers like
Quiet settings: Many campers value the solitude at Kiwanis Road Free Camping. "Great spot for free car camping! On the way to the Kiwanis campground, lots of spots right off the road. Right by the creek so you can't hear campsite neighbors even if they're close by," says Kara H.
Natural water features: The unusual geological formation at Little Crater Lake draws visitors. "It is absolutely beautiful, and there are plenty of places to go hiking around it. Timothy lake is located about 5 miles away," mentions Natasha R.
Private spaces: Many Government Camp area campgrounds offer secluded sites. "The sites are large and private, lots of amenities such as trails, boat rental, well equipped store, picnic tables and much more," shares Katie B. about Lost Lake Resort.
What you should know
Road access varies: Some campgrounds require planning for vehicle access. At Camp Creek Campground, "Since the site is nearly 100 years old, it's off limits for large RVs. I personally wouldn't bring in much larger than a long van, BUT, there are a few sites that will accommodate an 18ish foot trailer and its short tow vehicle," advises c S.
Seasonal conditions: Campground water levels fluctuate throughout the year. "When we went in early May, there were several places to park and camp in the large, open parking lot. The views of Mt Hood from this Sno Park are stunning!" reports Brendan R. about White River West Sno-Park.
Amenities limitations: Most Government Camp camping sites have basic facilities. "This is a primitive campground, no restroom or showers, just one vault toilet and there is one water pump if you need to wash dishes," explains Lady L. about Camp Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Frog Lake provides shallow water ideal for children. "Millions of tadpoles in the water and twice as many baby frogs on the north side of the lake by the swamp. Warm water, not deep at all. Beautiful view of mt hood," describes Connor J.
Wildlife viewing: Many camping sites near Government Camp offer nature observation opportunities. "I have not camped here but we go up and spend the day often. The facilities are clean and well kept. The best part about this place is the tiny frogs you catch. The ground literally moves with them!" explains Ashley M. about Frog Lake.
Safety considerations: Lakes in the area vary in depth and temperature. "Trillium Lake is easier and faster to get to than many of the other Mt. Hood Lakes, and with one of the best views of the mountain. There is also snow-shoeing here in the winter, but don't underestimate the sloped road you have to get down (and back-up) to get to the lake in the first place!" cautions Raphaela H.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Mt Hood Village Resort provides full services for RVs. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers. Nice store for basic needs, nice laundry room," reports Steve R.
Leveling challenges: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "This is a large, paved parking lot with a stream nearby. Has a good view of Mt. Hood and vault toilets, so that's a positive. The downside is that it's not level. Trailers shouldn't have a problem, but even with several blocks under our tires, our 39ft Class A was still un-level," warns Garrett B. about White River West Sno-Park.
Base camp options: Some RVers prefer established campgrounds for extended stays. "The full hook up sites are in old growth timber giving each site a feeling of seclusion. The lodge, pool, hot tub and saunas are in good condition. The campground provides easy access to a number of nearby activities," notes Jack B. about Mt Hood Village Resort.
